Vancouver, Canada
(co-written by Bree Galbraith, Jordan Cook and Michael O'Hare)
Situated between the vast Pacific and the imposing Rockies, between the cold Arctic and the most powerful country on Earth. Vancouver has a unique position and has had turned it to its advantage.
Being rated the World's Most Liveable City by the Economist (2 years running) and Canada's Most Sustainable City by Corporate Knights is some achievement.
But what, exactly, has Vancouver done to become such a great city?
Who better to ask than the city's people? So here's a commentary on Vancouver from a local, Bree Galbraith (many thanks to Bree - check out her blog and website for more of her writing):
Vancouver Vancouver Vancouver...
"To me, with two young boys, I feel like I am living in one of the most accessible places on earth. I live in False Creek, nestled in between Granville Island and the Olympic Athletes Village, and hardly find the need to drive.
"We are steps from the seawall, a path that runs around the inlet and eventually connects to Stanley Park, which in itself is about an 8km walk around. The scenery is beautiful, and there are always paths for those walking and those on wheels.If we don't feel like the walk, we can ride the bus or take the aqua ferry across to downtown Vancouver where transit picks you up where you left off.
Vancouver's Beaches
"There are some beautiful beaches in Vancouver that are kept clean and well taken care of, many of which have lifeguards on duty in the summer. There is Kits Beach, Spanish Banks, Jericho, Wreck Beach (where you go naked), English Bay, Second Beach and Third Beach, both on Stanley Park. In the summer, these beaches are full of sunbathers and buskers, hot dog stands and tourists.
Vancouver's Diversity & Food
"Vancouver has such a diverse mix of people from just about every corner of the globe calling it home. Because of this, there is always a festival or event that is put on in recognition of cultural observations. And the food! Oh the food...
"At any time of day (or often night), you can get your hands on whatever your heart and stomach desires. From sushi to Thai, Greek to Indian, Vancouver has a palate like none other.
Sustainable Vancouver
"Of course, we can't talk about Vancouver without talking about sustainability and 'going green'. Many people, including our mayor, are committed to the environment, and it is beginning to show. Check out the mayor's website for more info.
"I love my city, and the rain that comes along with it. It's the rain that keeps it so green and lush... and the tourists away for much of the year!"
Vancouver - a city for people?
Bree makes a great case for Vancouver, as does the Economist and Corporate Knights. And who can not be impressed by the excellent job Vancouver has done hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics?
What's your experience of Vancouver? Let me know what you think on my blog.